There’s no doubt that an AC unit is vital for a comfortable living space. It improves indoor air quality, helps in humidity control, and is a heat source during winter. However, like other home appliances, your AC unit needs to be serviced regularly to keep it working at optimum capacity.
If you neglect your air conditioning unit, its performance will drastically decline, and eventually, you may have to replace it. In this guide, we’ll highlight everything you need to know about servicing your AC, what it includes, and how to clean the vital parts.
Is It Necessary to Service AC Every Year?
You should service your AC unit at least once every year during spring before it gets hot enough to use your AC frequently. You should also consider doing regular check-ins and cleaning often to ensure it is running smoothly. The AC filters, coils, and fins must be cleaned and maintained throughout the year to prevent a decline in performance. Keep in mind that a drop in AC performance leads to an increase in the amount of power input required to keep it running, making it more expensive in the long run.
Signs That Your AC Needs to Be Serviced
You can avoid costly AC repairs and replacements by identifying minor issues and servicing them before they worsen. Some common signs that your AC needs servicing include:
- The thermostat is not working
- There is a problem with the airflow
- Loud noise inside the unit
- Strong odors emanate from the AC once it’s turned on
- Leaks around the AC
- High electric bill
- The AC breaks down more often
What Is Included in AC Servicing?
An AC unit usually collects dust and debris that can prevent it from cooling efficiently. It’s crucial to ensure that there are no problems with your AC and that it’s running smoothly. Below are some of the procedures included in AC servicing.
Cleaning and Replacing AC Filters
AC filters require more frequent maintenance and cleaning compared to other parts of the unit, especially if the AC is used frequently. Clean and replace the filters every two months or every month if you have pets in the house or live in an area with a lot of pollution. The first thing you need to know when cleaning your AC filters is that not all can be cleaned. If your filter has a cardboard frame, you must get a new replacement.
To clean an AC filter, you first need to determine its location; typically, it should be near the cold air return. Next, shut the power off to prevent getting electrocuted or ruining the filters as you take them out. After removing the filter, vacuum it to get rid of the loose dust and fur. Depending on the type of filter on your AC, you can put it back after vacuuming or soak it in a 50/50 mixture of water and vinegar; some filters are not water-friendly. Ensure you allow the filter enough time to dry before reinstalling it to the AC.
Cleaning AC Coils
Although filters prevent AC coils from getting dirty, they will eventually collect dust after months or years of service. Cleaning your AC coils is simple; it minimizes wear and tear and improves cooling efficiency. Your AC has two sets of coils; condenser coils and evaporator coils. Condenser coils dissipate heat, while evaporator coils cool the air.
You should clean your AC coils at least once a year or more frequently, depending on how often you use your AC. Cleaning AC coils is challenging, and you should get a professional to do it; doing it yourself can cause irreparable damage.
Checking the Coolant Level
The coolant level affects the AC performance; when the AC is low on coolant, it takes longer to cool, and it cannot reach the set temperature. If the level is too low, the technician may suggest adding more coolant until it reaches the required mark.
Overall Inspection of the AC
A professional AC technician will do an overall check of the entire AC unit to ensure there are no faults. This includes opening the unit, listening for loud sounds, and looking for any leakage. If there is a fault with any of the interior parts, it might be repaired or replaced.
What Will Happen If the AC Is Not Used in a While?
Unlike most devices, your AC unit will not develop problems if it’s not used in a while. Today’s Air conditioners are built to last; most can run for months without slowing down. Additionally, if your AC is serviced often and maintained regularly, it’s unlikely to develop any problems if it’s turned off for a few months. However, there are certain precautions you should take before running your AC after leaving it dormant for a few months. They include the following:
- Ensure there are no weeds or debris around your compressor unit- if your air conditioner has been unused for a couple of months, weeds can grow around it. Remove any debris on the outside and get a professional technician to check the internal parts.
- Catch up on the maintenance- you should consider maintaining and cleaning your AC unit before you start using it, especially if you had not done any maintenance before switching it off. This includes cleaning and replacing the filters.
- Run the AC in fan mode- before turning on the AC to cool, turn the thermostat to fan mode for a few minutes to clean out any dust and debris in the system.
- Look for any leaks- Sometimes, the refrigerant might leak, impacting the AC’s performance and durability. Ensure you replace the leaking parts as soon as possible.
Get Your AC Serviced by Professionals
It is highly recommended that you get your AC serviced by a professional air cooling technician to avoid making mistakes that might cost you. Gauged Up is committed to providing excellent service at an affordable price throughout Utah. Our technicians are thorough and patient, and their services are guaranteed to work. Contact us today for your AC servicing or any further questions.
